Tejano music pioneer Manny R. Guerra died Dec. 12 at age 85, one day before the death of friend Abraham Quintanilla Jr., Selena’s father and longtime manager.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Manny R. Guerra, a pioneering Tejano music producer and studio owner who played a major role in shaping Selena y Los Dino’s sound and growth, died early Thursday, Dec. 12, according to a statement shared by his family on Facebook. He was 85.
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“It is with heavy hearts that we announce Manny has gone to be with the Lord,” the family wrote, asking for prayers and privacy during their time of grief. The post cited Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
Guerra was widely known within the Tejano music industry for his work as a producer, recording engineer and entrepreneur. According to Tejano Nation, Guerra founded Amen Recording Studios, which became a key recording hub for Tejano artists during the genre’s rise in the 1980s and 1990s.
John Henry Medina with TN reported that Guerra was instrumental in helping professionalize Tejano music, providing artists access to high-quality recording facilities at a time when such opportunities were limited. His studio work helped elevate production standards and contributed to the genre’s broader recognition.
Among the artists Guerra worked with was Selena Quintanilla, who later rose to international fame as the “Queen of Tejano Music.” Medina noted that Guerra was present during early milestones in Selena’s career, including appearances at early Tejano Music Awards ceremonies. A well-known photograph shows Guerra with Selena at the 1987 Tejano Music Awards in San Antonio where she won Best Female Vocalist.
According to Medina, Guerra was also known for mentoring young artists and supporting emerging talent, often playing a behind-the-scenes role in helping performers develop their sound and careers.
That list includes:
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Selena Quintanilla
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Abraham Quintanilla Jr.
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Jay Perez
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Sunny Ozuna
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Augustine Ramirez
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Culturas
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Joe Bravo
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Laura Canales
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Ram Herrera
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Cornelio Reyna
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Roberto Pulido
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Latin Breed
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David Marez
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Mazz
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La Mafia
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Emilio Navaira
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La Tropa F
Medina notes that Guerra’s influence extended to many others who helped shape the DNA of modern Tejano music.
Guerra’s death came one day before the passing of Abraham Quintanilla Jr., Selena’s father and longtime manager.
Funeral arrangements had not been announced as of Monday.
